Christmas Stories
Borrowing Wonder, J. Shea; cover art, M. McMahon
In Appreciation
Over the years, I’ve appreciated our connections; and especially this year as Christmas and Hanukkah overlap, I’m hoping to share something meaningful in return. Lately, I’ve been reading a lot about the power and value of personal stories—how they connect us, evoke fond memories, and prompt new conversations.
Christmas Stories: The Power of Memory
This holiday season, I’ve found myself retrieving and reflecting on years of family pictures and stories. Not drafting a memoir, but rather collecting the kinds of anecdotes that spark more meaningful thoughts. Stories, after all, do help us revisit the moments that shape us, blending the nostalgia with hopefully a humorous perspective.
Inspired by Beautiful Places
Many of my favorite holiday stories are connected with beautiful settings. My past holiday greetings have featured picturesque places like Stockbridge, MA and other charming snow-covered Main Streets. Closer to home, one of my personal holiday traditions is visiting the Botanic Garden’s annual Lightscape show. This year, the above Gazebo image reminded me of Jackman Park in Glenview—one of my favorite spots—as envisioned in the glow of winter.
Favorite Christmas Storyteller
This season, I again found inspiration in the works of Jack Shea, one of my favorite Christmas storytellers (and his latest book’s cover image, as noted above.). A new highlight of my holiday so far was attending the First Friday Club luncheon at the Union League Club - a great setting to hear notable local leaders - where Jack read excerpts from his new collection, Borrowing Wonder. His reflection on the “nagging beauty of Poinsettias” struck a chord, as did his reminder that Spirit may seem fleeting, but memory always brings it back! First Friday-Shea Podcast
Your Holiday Stories
I’d love to hear your holiday stories—what moments that make the season special for you? But I know time and attention are in short supply, so I’m sharing a few versions of my favorites here, hoping they might spark a smile or a memory of your own.
Classic Holiday Tales
I’ve often found my favorite personal Christmas stories have combined idealistic expectations with humorous twists. The classic Gift of the Magi by O. Henry embodies the spirit of selflessness in relationships: a couple sacrifices their most prized possessions to give each other meaningful gifts - only to discover irony and deeper meaning in the process.
Contemporary Versions
On the other hand, I also see the humor in more contemporary versions, like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Chevy Chase’s timeless portrayal of Clark Griswold reminds us that while holiday plans may go awry, humor and family can still make everything unforgettable.
Closing Reflections
Beautiful winter settings, the inspiration of stories, and the satisfaction of re-connecting—these are what make the season truly special. As I reflect on these themes, I leave you with this quote:
“…You are more than the surrounding darkness.” J. Shea
